Is't Called Destiny

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Part 11: Unfinished Business

The opulent ballroom of the Khanna Empire's headquarters was abuzz with the chatter of high-powered executives, industry leaders, and the elite of the business world. Ayan Khanna, the charismatic CEO of Khanna Empire, was known for his lavish parties, and tonight's event was no exception. The room was filled with the glittering light of chandeliers, and the air was thick with the scent of expensive perfume and fine champagne.

Kanishka entered the room, her confidence radiating despite the turmoil of recent events. She wore a sleek, black evening gown that accentuated her grace and elegance, her hair swept up in an intricate bun. As she moved through the crowd, she garnered appreciative glances, her presence commanding attention.

"Miss Rao," a voice called out warmly. Kanishka turned to see Ayan Khanna approaching, a charming smile on his face. He was tall, with a chiseled jaw and an air of effortless sophistication. "So glad you could make it."

"Ayan," Kanishka greeted, her smile genuine. "Thank you for inviting me. It's quite the event."

Ayan's eyes twinkled with mischief as he leaned in slightly. "Anything for you, Kanishka. You look stunning tonight."

Kanishka laughed lightly, brushing off his flirtation with ease. "Flattery will get you nowhere, Ayan. But thank you."

As they conversed, Darsh entered the ballroom. He had been dreading this event, knowing that Kanishka would likely be there, but his position demanded his attendance. He spotted her almost immediately, her presence a magnetic force that drew his gaze. She was speaking with Ayan, and a pang of jealousy stabbed at his heart as he saw the way Ayan leaned in, his body language unmistakably flirtatious.

Darsh clenched his jaw, forcing himself to remain calm. He had no right to intervene, no claim to Kanishka anymore. Their paths had diverged painfully, and he knew he had to respect the distance she had put between them. Yet, watching Ayan attempt to charm her ignited a fire of possessiveness and regret within him.

"Darsh, good to see you," a voice interrupted his thoughts. It was Rahul, a fellow executive, offering a handshake.

"Rahul," Darsh replied, shaking his hand. "Likewise. How's business?"

They engaged in small talk, but Darsh's attention kept drifting back to Kanishka and Ayan. He watched as Ayan offered her a drink, his hand brushing hers briefly. Kanishka seemed to be enjoying the conversation, her laughter ringing out like a melody that both comforted and tormented Darsh.

Meanwhile, Ayan's charm was relentless. "So, Kanishka, have you ever considered a partnership with Khanna Empire? I think our companies could do great things together."

Kanishka raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "I'm always open to exploring new opportunities. What do you have in mind?"

Ayan leaned closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Why don't we discuss it over dinner sometime? Just you and me."

Kanishka hesitated, sensing the shift from professional to personal. "I'll think about it, Ayan. Let's keep tonight about business, shall we?"

Ayan chuckled, not deterred. "Of course, whatever you prefer. But the offer stands."

Across the room, Darsh's jealousy simmered. He saw the way Ayan looked at Kanishka, the subtle yet unmistakable signs of his interest. It took all of his self-control to remain composed, to not stride over and insert himself into their conversation. But he knew he couldn't. Not anymore.

As the evening wore on, Darsh found himself gravitating toward the periphery of Kanishka and Ayan's interactions, his heart heavy with emotions he struggled to suppress. He watched as Ayan continued to charm Kanishka, his gestures increasingly intimate, his intentions clear.

Finally, unable to bear it any longer, Darsh excused himself from his current conversation and made his way to the bar. He ordered a drink, trying to drown his jealousy and frustration in the smooth burn of whiskey. But every time he glanced over his shoulder, he saw Kanishka and Ayan, their proximity a constant reminder of what he had lost.

At one point, Ayan led Kanishka to the dance floor, taking her hand with a flourish. Darsh's grip tightened around his glass as he watched them move to the music, their bodies close, their expressions relaxed and happy. It was a sight that both enraged and saddened him.

Meanwhile, on the dance floor, Kanishka was aware of Darsh's eyes on her. She had noticed him the moment he entered the room, his presence as potent as ever. But she had forced herself to focus on Ayan, to enjoy the evening despite the turmoil in her heart.

"You're a wonderful dancer," Ayan complimented, his hand resting lightly on her waist.

"Thank you," Kanishka replied, her smile not quite reaching her eyes. "You're not too bad yourself."

As they danced, Ayan leaned in close, his breath warm against her ear. "I meant what I said earlier. We should have dinner. I think we could be great together, both in business and... otherwise."

Kanishka pulled back slightly, her gaze steady. "Ayan, I appreciate the offer, but let's keep things professional for now."

Ayan nodded, though his eyes held a glint of determination. "As you wish, Kanishka. But the offer remains open."

Across the room, Darsh watched the exchange, his heart a tangled mess of emotions. He drained his glass and set it down with a decisive thud. He couldn't stand here and watch any longer. With a final glance at Kanishka, he turned and walked out of the ballroom, the weight of his regrets heavy on his shoulders.

As the night drew to a close, Kanishka excused herself from Ayan's company, making her way to the balcony for a moment of solitude. The cool night air was a welcome relief from the heated atmosphere inside. She leaned against the railing, lost in thought.

"Why does it still hurt so much?" she whispered to herself, her voice barely audible over the distant hum of the city.

She heard footsteps behind her and turned to see Ayan approaching, his expression softening as he saw her alone.

"Are you alright, Kanishka?" he asked gently.

She forced a smile. "Yes, just needed some fresh air."

Ayan nodded, stepping closer. "You know, if you ever need someone to talk to, I'm here."

Kanishka appreciated his kindness, but her thoughts were elsewhere, tangled in memories of Darsh and the complicated web of their past. She thanked Ayan for his concern and assured him she was fine, even as her heart ached with the weight of unspoken emotions.

Inside, Darsh stood at the entrance of the building, looking up at the night sky. He knew that his jealousy and frustration wouldn't change anything. Kanishka had made her choice, and he had to respect that. But the pain of seeing her with someone else, the fear of losing her forever, gnawed at him.

"Maybe it's better this way," he muttered to himself, though the words rang hollow. "Maybe it's time to let go."

But even as he said it, he knew that letting go would be the hardest thing he had ever done. The memory of Kanishka's laughter, the feel of her touch, the promise of a future they had once envisioned together—all of it lingered, a constant reminder of what he had lost.

As the night wore on, Kanishka and Darsh each found their own corners of solace, their thoughts haunted by the ghosts of their shared past. And though they hoped to never meet again, the bond between them remained, a fragile thread of connection that neither could fully sever.